Duggan's Dew O'Kirkintilloch

I've considered the cheapest scotch options and wondered if any were drinkable or similar to awful Canadian whisky. They usually come in large bottles, which is a significant commitment if it turns out to be undrinkable. Fortunately, this was available in a small size, so I decided to take a chance. Poured neat, it had decent legs and a proof of 86.8. The aroma was faint with ethanol, a hint of distant fruit, and a lack of malt. The mouthfeel was better than anticipated, leading to a palate with general light sweetness, malt, and oaky char. It had some grain harshness but wasn't too unpleasant. The finish had quick grainy alcohol and char. Overall, it lacks significant flavor or depth but is preferable to cheap Canadian whisky and might work as a mixer. I will not be purchasing a large bottle of this or any other bargain options. 57/100. It's drinkable, I just don't want to be the one drinking it.

A fantastic inexpensive scotch for mixing, and not bad on its own either. The nose presents more ethanol than expected, but beyond that are notes of ripe banana and sweet cereal grains. The palate is sweet and slightly fruity, with a bit more spice than anticipated. The finish is brief but continues with sweet malt and a touch of ethanol. Overall, quite pleasing for the price. I have created several cocktails with this, which have been very successful. A whiskey sour made with this is both unique and enjoyable, as the sweet malty notes stand out against the lemon juice. Even better, however, is an old fashioned made with this. It seems to enhance the ripe banana note found on the nose, and it complements the angostura bitters beautifully. I am a fan overall.

It's a little harsh on both the nose and palate, yet surprisingly pleasant. It mixes exceptionally well, which is impressive for a US-bottled, no-age-statement, bottom-shelf blend. Overall, I'd classify it as very average, but considering its price, it's a good value. While taste is subjective, when compared to similar priced options like Inver House and Clan Macgregor, it's substantially superior. Furthermore, based on its packaging, including the label, screw-top design, the specific 86.8 proof, the name Duggan's Dew, and the tasting notes I perceive, I am quite confident that the liquid inside is an older formulation of Dewar's White Label.

A very tasty and sweet blend (without excessive graininess) and an excellent value, nearly on par with Smuggler, which is the benchmark. Very nice with just water. A discerning scotch-blend drinker would favor its flavor over many more costly, bland blends.

The nose suggests a lot of Speyside malt in the blend. The taste reflects this as well. There's hardly any peat. A genuinely good blend, especially for the cost. Absolutely worth the asking price.

Harsh. If you drink scotch, I question why you would opt for something so inexpensive. It's likely not as bad as I'm making it sound, but I recommend you upgrade.